Carterton claim first League Cup win

In an all West Oxfordshire final, Carterton claimed their first Oxford & District Bowls League Cup title under the floodlights of Kidlington, with a comfortable victory over a weakened West Witney side.

After a shock win over Cup holders Headington in the semi, West Witney were unable to field a full-strength team in the final with many bowlers away on a Club tour, so were always likely to struggle against the quality of Carterton.

With the game starting in sunshine, Witney’s captain Kevin Alder picked up a 6 on the first end, but this was more than matched across the other 3 rinks, as Carterton started to dominate from the outset. Within 5 ends Carterton had built up a lead of 24 shots and, by the time the floodlights had come on, there was no way back for West Witney.

Despite a gallant effort from the Witney team, which included some novice bowlers in the ranks, Carterton continued to dominate and crowned their first League Cup title by an emphatic 56 shots – Tim Warner’s rink picking up a ‘hot-shot’ in the process.

A delighted team captain, Stuart Richens commented, “It was great to get to the League Cup final for the first time, but even better to come away as winners. I’d like to thank my players for the support they’ve given me in this competition and throughout the season, and also to Kidlington Bowls Club for being such good hosts this evening. I’d also like to congratulate West Witney on the spirited performance they gave under the circumstances and look forward to defending the trophy next season”

The League Cup, now in it’s 10th year, is sponsored by S&J Timms Cleaning Services and Frances Baker of Rub A Dub Dub laundrette.